7 reasons to celebrate no.7's 44th birthday

Sports News: India's former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni celebrates his 44th birthday today. One of the most decorated players in the history of the sport, Dhoni has weaved his magic through his career. Be it finishing the games at the backend, effecting a lightning-quick stumping, or making bold captaincy decisions, the cricketer was always spot-on. From making his debut against Bangladesh in December 2004 to his retirement, Dhoni has given India many reasons to celebrate.  On his 44th birthday, let's have a look at seven reasons that made him an all time great.

1. Mahi's Golden Touch

Everybody remembers the final of the 2007 T20 World Cup against Pakistan. It was Dhoni's decision to give the ball to Joginder Sharma for the final over. And as they say, the rest is history. The former skipper often surprised many with his bold and accurate decision-making. Be it the six to win the 2011 World Cup or his call to give the last over to Ravichandran Ashwin in the ICC Champion's Trophy final.

2. An unorthodox wicket-keeper batsman

Dhoni's ability to strike the ball hard with brute force made him one of the most feared hitters of the ball. His iconic helicopter shot is one such example of his unorthodox and unique stroke-making. He still holds the record for the fastest stumping. Even his CSK coach, Stephen Fleming, said that never has he seen Dhoni practicing wicket-keeping. All of it comes naturally to him.

3. 183 vs. Sri Lanka

When everyone paid to watch the legend Sachin Tendulkar play, a long-haired boy from Jharkhand made his mark in international cricket with a scintillating performance of 183 against the neighbors, Sri Lanka. It did not take Dhoni much time to cement his place in the hearts of Indian people. Suddenly the fans started chanting one more name, 'Mahi Mahi.'

4. Dhoni's unbeatable legacy

The cricketer first captained India in the 2007 T20 World Cup in South Africa and led the team to victory. His leadership skills were never in doubt. The skipper then led India to a historic ODI WC win at home after a long wait of 28 years in 2011. He still was not satisfied with winning trophies. In 2013, the veteran cricketer led India to the Champion's Trophy triumph in England, which made him the only captain to win three ICC white-ball trophies.

5. A hard hitter, a fine finisher

Dhoni has always been known to deposit the ball in the stands with his ability to hit big and long. He has remained unbeaten in 50 successful run chases in his career. He has also finished 9 ODIs with a six, which is the highest by any batter.

6. A well-respected entity

Whatever Dhoni has achieved in his long career is admired among his fans and even his teammates. His accolades are not just something anybody can achieve in the competitive sport. India was lucky to witness such a leader, who put his heart up his sleeve when he stepped on the field.

7. India's favorite, Captain Cool

Dhoni was famous among his fans with the name 'Captain Cool.' The name was given to him because of his calming nature in the field. Even in the toughest of situations, Captain Cool used to remain calm, which often benefitted India. His composure is still admired by all.